News Physics

A pivotal quantum theory holds up even in extreme electric fields 

Quantum electrodynamics was put to the test with highly charged uranium ions 

The experimental storage ring at the GSI Helmholtz Centre in Darmstadt, Germany.

To test the theory of quantum electrodynamics in strong electromagnetic fields, scientists used highly charged uranium ions created at the GSI Helmholtz Centre in Darmstadt, Germany, and contained in the facility's experimental storage ring (shown).

J. Mai/GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH

By Emily Conover

- More than 2 years ago

To put one of physicists’ most important theories to the test, scientists go to extremes.